Entry No. 32 — the Charlotte file — filed under: boutique gallery
Dupp & Swat
Founded by siblings Dion and Davita Galloway, this colorful, highly energetic creative studio serves as a contemporary art gallery, artisan boutique, and community event space that proudly champions underrepresented local creators.
The story
If you want to pass as someone who actually knows Charlotte's creative underbelly, start by getting the name right: "Dupp" is pronounced "Dope." Siblings Dion ("Dupp") and Davita ("Swat") Galloway started this independent operation back in 2010, building a roving, rule-breaking sanctuary for local artists who didn't fit into the city's squeaky-clean corporate arts ecosystem.
After hopping through four different locations over more than a decade—a survival feat in a city prone to bulldozing anything older than five years—they landed in a 1,200-square-foot footprint inside Camp North End's Boileryard District. The moment you cross the threshold of Suite 105, look straight down: you are literally stepping on custom art, thanks to a massive floor mural painted by local artist John Hairston Jr.
Part contemporary gallery, part artisan boutique, and part neighborhood living room, the space serves strictly as a launching pad for underrepresented creators. Instead of sterile white walls and velvet ropes, you'll find rack upon rack of hand-printed apparel, original visual art, and a studio culture that values community over snobbery.
What it's like
Expect a tight, dense 1,200-square-foot space packed with locally designed streetwear, prints, and art pieces you won't find anywhere else in the Queen City. The atmosphere shifts completely depending on when you show up: on a quiet weekday afternoon, it functions as a relaxed retail boutique where you can chat with the makers, but during event nights—like their 'Beat the Heat' artist showcases or 'Vibes and Vino' lawn cookouts—the energy overflows onto the pavement with live music and crowds. Always double-check their hours or event schedule online before heading out, as opening times flex around pop-ups and workshops.
The move: Stop by during one of their 'Beat the Heat' artist showcases or live music sessions, admire the massive, custom floor mural painted by local artist John Hairston Jr., and browse unique handmade apparel and visual art.
- 📍 Camp North End
- 💸 $$
- ⚡ Up for anything
- 🌗 Indoors
Where: 1824 Statesville Ave, Suite 105, Charlotte, NC 28206
Hours: Added 2026-07-21 — confirm current hours before you go.
Pair it with
- Goodyear Arts — Walk two minutes across Camp North End to explore another artist-led, non-profit residency housed inside a massive former industrial warehouse.
- Hart Witzen Gallery — Head under a mile north to check out Charlotte's gritty, uncurated granddaddy of independent studio spaces, operating since 1995.
- Starlight on 22nd — Cap off your art walk a mile away at this retro lounge opened by two iconic NoDa art pioneers.
Good to know
How do you pronounce the name?
"Dupp" is pronounced "Dope." Saying it like "cup" is an immediate dead giveaway that you're visiting for the first time.
Who is behind Dupp & Swat?
It was founded in 2010 by sibling duo Dion ("Dupp") and Davita ("Swat") Galloway to champion underrepresented creators in Charlotte.
Where is it located within Camp North End?
You'll find them at 1824 Statesville Avenue, Suite 105, tucked into the historic Boileryard District of the Camp North End complex.
What can I buy or see there?
You can browse handmade apparel, original visual art, and local artisan goods, all while walking across a massive floor mural executed by artist John Hairston Jr.
Plan a visit & invite your people →
Further reading: camp.nc · charlotteiscreative.com · qcitymetro.com · charlotteonthecheap.com
last checked: 2026-07-21